What Dogs Do When You're Not Home

You leave, they sigh, they get bored, they sleep. And sometimes they solve world peace. But mostly they're just waiting for you to come home, says dog trainer Kathy Santo.

What does my dog do all day when I'm not home?

The majority of dogs treat your leaving the house as a ritual. They don't do the torturous emotional flogging we humans fall into: "Oh, no, is she still mad about the shoe incident?" Dogs live in the moment. You leave, they sigh, they assess what's available to meet their needs, they get bored, they sleep (hence the energetic, enthusiastic greeting you receive when you come home). You'll notice, however, that I said "most" dogs. There are a small percentage who have separation anxiety, destructive tendencies, and/or incredible energy. These dogs don't do well when left alone for long periods, and if you have one, I'm guessing you already know what they do when you're out, because you've had to replace the bedroom carpet and the kitchen baseboards (twice). If your dog has separation anxiety and/or destructive tendencies, find a dog behaviorist who can solve the problem. If he has high energy, invest in a dog walker or doggie day care to give him the play outlet that he needs. Remember, his needs are his needs. If you don't give him a channel for his energy, he'll find a way to meet his needs that I promise will be something you'd prefer not to have happen.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.